Self-Censorship: The Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Self-censorship takes place in every social space, including interpersonal, intraorganizational, and intra-societal settings. For various reasons, individuals decide not to disclose truthful information to their family members, close friends, members of their groups, members of organizations, the media, leaders, or other society members. In these cases, the individuals consider that there is at least some cost in disclosing this information and they therefore decide to hide it. Of special importance are societal cases in which it is evident that the information could lead to the improved functioning of society and/or prevent its misconduct, yet individuals still withhold it and do not disclose its substance to other members of their society. The present book focuses mainly on societal self-censorship, although it also contends with self-censorship in families and organizations. On this macro level, it illuminates a specific aspect of societal functioning, because self-censorship poses an obstacle, blocking information that might potentially facilitate various constructive and functional improvements in a society. As the book focuses on societal self-censorship, we open with a discussion about the general value of free flow of information. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved)